3 Romantic Old Cafés You Don’t Want to Miss in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is a city that is more sensitive to change than any other. As a result, many places transform within just one or two years. As a local, we feel that while this has its advantages, it also comes with its downsides. The emptiness we feel when a place we loved disappears without a trace is profound. Yet, amidst this, there are cafés in Seoul that have preserved their history well. Here, team UoH would like to introduce three of the oldest cafés where you can still feel the charm of the past. There is a unique allure to things that are old in their own way. If you travel to Seoul, we recommend visiting these cafés at least once.

1. Hakrim (학림)

• 2nd Floor, 119, Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Mon – Sun 10AM – 11PM (Last Order at 10PM)

‘Hakrim(학림),’ meaning ‘Forest of Learning,’ opened its doors in 1956. Those who have passed through Hakrim include prominent social activists, unknown thinkers, writers, and artists of the time. Renowned novelists and poets of Korean literature have contributed to the early history of Hakrim Café. The traces of time can be felt in the frames, wallpaper, and speakers throughout the café. As the years have gone by, Hakrim Café has become a future heritage of Seoul. How about enjoying a cup of coffee in this place that holds both history and romance?

2. Minerva (미네르바)

• 2nd Floor, 18, Myeongmul-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Mon – Sat 10AM – 9PM, Sun Off

Founded in 1975, this is the oldest specialty coffee shop in Sinchon, named after Minerva, the goddess of wisdom. Here, you can feel the passage of time and reminisce about old Sinchon. The interior features wooden finishes from floor to ceiling, with cozy checkered table covers on the wooden tables and chairs. If you want to experience the essence of the “Replay” TV series in real life, make sure to visit!

3. Brahms (브람스)

• 61, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Mon – Fri 11:30AM – Midnight, Sat – Sun 1PM – 10PM

Opened in 1985, Café Brahms was established by a café owner who loved classical music and wanted to create a space to enjoy it.

The dark windows are adorned with the words ‘coffee’ and ‘beer,’ along with a portrait of composer Johannes Brahms. Located on the second floor at the Anguk Station intersection, Café Brahms is nestled among important and historic buildings and offices in Seoul. You can feel the nostalgic atmosphere with elements like clocks, stairs, windows, and velvet chairs. It is a popular spot for older patrons who visit to reminisce, and it’s also a great place to enjoy a beer while listening to classical music in the evening.

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